Norway Proposes Legal Requirement for Access to Printed Textbooks in Primary and Lower-Secondary Schools (Norway, June 2026)
The government proposed a statutory requirement that compulsory schools must have access to printed learning materials. The proposal is part of a broader effort to rebalance screen use and physical books in Norwegian schools.
The government proposed a statutory requirement that compulsory schools must have access to printed learning materials. The proposal is part of a broader effort to rebalance screen use and physical books in Norwegian schools.
What Changed?
The government signalled that access to printed textbooks and learning resources should be legally required in compulsory education.
Old System vs New System
Access to printed and digital learning resources varied, and many teachers reported that they did not in practice have a real choice between printed and digital materials.
If adopted, schools would be required to ensure access to printed learning materials, giving teachers more freedom to choose the format they consider best for learning.
Who Is Affected?
Student Impact
Students may receive more learning through printed books and less dependence on screens, especially in basic-skills subjects.
Parent / Family Impact
Parents may find it easier to follow up schoolwork at home when printed books are available.
School / Institution Impact
Municipalities and schools may need to review textbook procurement, budgets, and learning-material strategies.
Teacher / Staff Impact
Teachers may gain greater practical choice between printed and digital materials for lesson planning.
Key Dates
- 2026-06-19: Proposal announced
- Further legislative process: To be confirmed
What To Do
- Schools and municipalities should monitor the legislative process and assess current access to printed materials.
What To Watch Next
Watch for consultation documents, draft legal text, funding decisions, and implementation timelines.
Global Context
The proposal reflects a broader international reconsideration of screen-heavy schooling and the role of physical learning materials in literacy and basic skills.
Source Record
Source type: Official announcement
Source name: Norwegian Prime Minister’s Office and Norwegian Ministry of Education and Research